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During the late 1980s, I set out on a low-cost journey to the European continent with a travel partner. Because my friend was interested in pursuing a master’s degree in NYC, we had arranged a 14-day stopover there en route to London.

We reached the student accommodation, a large 10-storey building on the Upper West Side named International House. Once we unpacked, we went directly to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and began chatting with people eating there.

Adjacent to my seat was an gentleman from Iraq enrolled in an engineering program at Columbia University. He asked me what I did for a living, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.

He mentioned that there was an electron microscope unit at the university – right next door to the engineering department, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a role with them. I dismissed the idea, saying that I was about to fly to Europe and, more critically, I did not possess a US visa.

A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that after dark. The engineering student approached me and let me know that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately informed my prospective employer that I lacked the necessary visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.

Reflecting the city's spirit – a metropolis where everything seems achievable – she declared: “That can be arranged. When can you start?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.

I held that position for 36 months. An advantage of the role was that I got complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to earn a graduate degree in global studies.

We didn't cross paths after that and I don’t even know his full name, but his selfless gesture changed my life in so many ways. I would never have had the confidence or nerve to reach out at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had long dreamed to pursue education overseas, but could never have afforded it without that educational benefit.

Critically, that job in New York led me to a role in Europe where I got to know my beautiful French husband, with whom I currently share four wonderful sons and daughters. That encounter altered everything. That kind stranger set me on a different course in life, and I’m forever grateful.

What is the Kindest Gesture a Stranger Has Shown for You?

From making your day to changing your life, we want to hear about chance encounters that have stuck with you.

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